Creamy Roasted Garlic Four Cheese Pasta

• 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 1 whole head of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut the top off the garlic head and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil; wrap in foil and roast for 35-40 minutes.
2. 2 Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a saucepan, heat remaining olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. 4 Add roasted garlic cloves (squeezed from skins) to saucepan, along with heavy cream; simmer gently for 5 minutes.
5. 5 Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar, and ricotta until smooth.
6. 6 Stir in cooked pasta and butter until well-coated in the sauce.
7. 7 Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Equipment

• Oven
• Saucepan
• Colander
• Garlic press (optional)

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Toss in sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Substitutions

• Use a blend of your favorite cheeses if you can't find the exact four.
• Substitute almond milk for a lighter option, though it will change the texture.

Pairings

• Steamed broccoli
• Garlic bread

Nutrition

Tips

• For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after adding the cheeses.
• Roast the garlic ahead of time to save prep work later.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream over low heat.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread.
• A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy richness beautifully.

FAQ